Back in the Summer of 2005, approximately 30 Dedham Middle School boys and girls enrolled in a new program called TREK (Technology, Recreation, Enrichment, Knowledge).

Created by Dr. Don Langenhorst and Dr. Cathy Oravetz, the summer session was designed tohelp students complete portions of their  summer math and reading homework, along withproviding students an opportunity to enhance their skills while working on a variety of computer activities.

Under the leadership of Dr. Cathy Oravetz – TREK program co-ordinator and Dedham Public Schools K-12 Technology Integrator – interest in joining this program has grown each year. The TREK 2012 class has increased to 140 students this summer resulting in the addition oftwo additional TREK staff members.

Along with courses in math, reading, science, and creative writing, the boys and girls in grades six, seven and eight participate in a daily physical activity class which includes games such as basketball, dodgeball, or soccer. In addition to their studies this year, Dr.Oravetz has made arrangements for the TREK students to visit the Dedham Historical Society.

Located at 612 High St. in Dedham Square, the Historical Society was founded in 1859  by a group of citizens, concerned about preserving the town`s history.
Executive Director Vicky Kruckeberg explains the property and a bequest for the construction of the building, were left to the town by the estate of Hannah Shuttleworth – daughter of prominent Dedham businessman Jeremiah Shuttleworth. The Dedham Historical Society is a charitable, educational institution and receives no funding from the local, state or federal government.They are completely supported through membership and private donations.

Group by group, volunteer educator Margaret Matthews, led the Dedham Middle School students through the museum, explaining key pieces of our Town`s rich history. The boys and girls will return to school and share their thoughts and experiences in their TREK creative writing class.